Proceedings

In Vitro Effects of Priming Agents on Blood Sedimentation Rate and Viscosity

Extracorporeal Circulation Technology Program and The Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery The Medical University of South Carolina Charleston, SC

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Abstract

Blood from seven male patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery was mixed with four priming agents (hydroxyethyl starch (HES), low molecular weight dextran (LMWD), lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS), and 5 percent normal serum albumin (ALB), at concentrations of I percent, 10 percent, 20 percent, and 30 percent. Each sample was then assayed for erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and blood and plasma viscosities.

Results show a positive correlation between increasing HES concentration and ESR, blood viscosity, and plasma viscosity. A positive correlation also exists between increasing LMWD concentration and blood and plasma viscosities. However, a negative correlation was found between LMWD concentration and ESR.

Results indicate a significant red cell aggregating property for HES, and a significant inhibition of red cell aggregation by LMWD.